In total, 11.7 million smartphones are set to be shipped in 2017 - a rise of 3 million compared to 2012.

Trend-wise, the Aussie predictions are somewhat similar to Canalys global forecasts released yesterday, indicating Google Android will have global domination of the mobile market, accounting for 2 out of 3 phones sold.

"Apple has a much larger market share in Australia, given its strong brand, and Apple's strong retail channels as well," Jessica Kwee, a Canalys analyst based in Singapore, told CN.

Since the Aussie smartphone market is mature (almost 50% own a smartphone) volume growth will be "relatively modest".